Port Louis, Mauritius Report of what it's like to live there - 02/22/09
Personal Experiences from Port Louis, Mauritius
Background:
1. Was this post your first expatriate experience? If not, what other cities have you lived in as an expat?
No, Madrid, Brussels, London, El Salvador.
2. How long have you lived here?
Two years.
3. What brought you to this city (e.g. diplomatic mission, business, NGO, military, teaching, retirement, etc.)?
Government.
4. Travel time and best routes to this city from Europe or the US:
12 hours from Europe.
Housing, Groceries & Food:
1. What is your housing like? What are typical housing sizes, locations, and commute times for expatriates?
Housing is good to great, although can be hard to find in some neighborhoods. Driving times are deceptive due to few main highways; a 10 km commute can take 45 minutes.
2. How would you describe the availability and cost of groceries and household supplies relative to your home country?
Spotty. Because most of the products here are imported, you can find some ingredients one week...then not see them again on the shelves for six months!
3. What household or grocery items do you wish you had shipped to post?
Mexican food. Koolaid. Shoes (what you find here are cheap Chinese-made knock offs). DVDs (you can't buy DVDs that aren't pirated). American breakfast cereal. English greeting cards.
4. What typical restaurants, food delivery services, and/or takeout options are popular among expatriates?
Some options available, such as KFC and McDonald's. But you'll get more by eating local cuisine in cafes. Prices are similar to (or in some cases cheaper than) the U.S.
5. Are there any unusual problems with insects or other infestations in housing?
None.
Daily Life:
1. How do you send and receive your letters and package mail? Are local postal facilities adequate?
Local Mauritian International post can be used to ship things via international registered mail. It is cheaper than DHL or FEDEX (which are prohibitively expensive).
2. What is the availability and cost of household help, and what types of help are typically employed by expatriates?
Yes, but it can be hard to find a qualified person depending upon where you live. The best method is via referrals from another domestic who works for a person who lives near you.
3. What kinds of gyms or other sports/workout facilities are available? Are they expensive?
Yes.
4. Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
No problems. Available everywhere.
5. What English-language religious services are available locally?
Yes.
6. English-language newspapers and TV available? Cost?
Yes. But online services beat out the printed word in cost and timeliness.
7. How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
Very little to none. Although you will find that while most people speak English (it is taught in all schools from a young age and is a national language of the country), the local press and TV is all in French or Creole.
8. Would someone with physical disabilities have difficulties living in this city?
Yes.
Transportation:
1. Are local buses, trams, trains or taxis safe and affordable?
Yes, but not very convenient buses. There are no posted routes for the buses and they breakdown frequently. Taxis are safe and dependable. Some folks find them expensive, but if you consider the price of gas here compared to the U.S., you get a pretty good deal taking a taxi.
2. What kind of car do you recommend bringing to post, given the terrain, availability of parts, burglary/carjacking risks, etc.? What kind of car do you advise not to bring?
Left-hand drive is best. U.S. and Japanese cars are sold and repaired by dealers here.
Phone & Internet:
1. Is high-speed home Internet access available? How long does it typically take to install it after arrival?
Yes. US$60-$110 a month.
2. Do you have any recommendations regarding mobile phones? Did you keep your home-country plan or use a local provider?
Cell phones are cheap and readily available.
Pets:
1. Are qualified veterinarians and/or good kennel services available? Do animals need to be quarantined upon entry to the country? Are there other considerations regarding pets that are particular to this country?
Yes. This can be a difficult procedure and require advance planning of up to a year before your arrival in country.
2. Quality pet care available (vets & kennels)?
Yes, with some vet services available at your home. Don't know about kennels.
Employment & Volunteer Opportunities:
1. What types of jobs do most expatriate spouses/partners have? Locally based or telecommuting? Full-time or part-time? Can you comment on local salary scales?
Yes, but it takes some leg work. Visa problems for Embassy spouses has largely been resolved. But be prepared to provide any and all necessary paperwork to back up your credentials -- especially if you are looking for a job as a teacher or medical professional.
2. What is the typical dress code at work and in public places? Is formal dress ever required?
Work is business dress. Casual events are tan slacks and golf shirt for men. Cropped pants and sandals for women.
Health & Safety:
1. Pollution index (Good, Moderate, Unhealthy, or Very Unhealthy)?
Good.
2. What immunizations are required each year?
3. Are there personal security concerns to be aware of at this post? Please describe.
Mauritius is statistically one of the safest countries in the world.
4. Are there any particular health concerns? What is the quality of available medical care? What medical conditions typically require medical evacuation?
Health care is good, with decent to excellent hospital near both Embassy communities. Doctors are often trained in Europe or Australia, and very helpful and available. Embassy has special contract for a private ambulance service.
5. What is the overall climate: is it extremely hot or cold, wet or dry, at any time of year, for example?
Lovely weather year-round. Some micro climates that can be refreshing if you want a change of weather.
Schools & Children:
1. What is the availability of international schools? What has been your general experience with them, if any?
Surprisingly good options for schools here; several high schools with IB or other internationally recognized programs. Even a primary school running the IB program! Lots of options around the island to find a school in your area.
2. What accommodations do schools make for special-needs kids?
There is a national federation that can provide some assistance for special-needs kids, finding schools, and the like. Much of the work will depend upon what you need in this regard. Some schools have limited special-needs programs.
3. Are preschools available? Day care? Are these expensive? What has been your experience with them, if any? Do the schools provide before- and/or after-school care?
Yes.
4. Are local sports classes and/or activities available for kids?
Yes. There is a basketball federation for children (girls and boys), tennis clubs, and other sporting groups. Excellent options for horse-riding lessons, for examples. Schools may have limited programs compared to the US, but government or private clubs provide other alternatives.
Expat Life:
1. What is the relative size of the expatriate community? How would you describe overall morale among expatriates?
Not large, but it is a fun and dynamic group.
2. Morale among expats:
Good.
3. What are some typical ways to socialize, either with local people or with other expatriates? Are there groups or clubs that you can recommend?
Great expat interaction. More events than you can possible go to! Lots of outdoor events, visits to beach houses, and dinner,. Many events include kids and are informal. Good clubs and bars in the north. Pockets of excellent restaurants (some of posh hotels) around the island.
4. Is this a good city for single people? For couples? For families? Why or why not?
Great for families. Tougher for singles because the culture is so focused on family-related events and activities. Lots of outdoor activities, water sports, horse riding, seasonal horse racing (which is a big social event here), hiking, and climbing is great.
5. Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?
Could be tough.
6. Are there problems with ethnic, race/racial minorities or religious prejudices? Gender equality?
No.
7. What are some interesting/fun things to do in the area? Can you recommend any “hidden gems"?
If you love warm weather and outdoor activities, Mauritius is a dream assignment. Wonderful water sports of every kind. Gorgeous beaches and snorkeling. Great destination for friends and family to come for a visit (if they can manage the long trip here). A few small museum. Rich and diverse culture. Wonderful restaurants from high-end fancy cuisine to food off a cart downtown.
8. Is this a "shopping post"? Are there interesting handicrafts, artwork, antiques, or other items that people typically buy there?
Not much local...maybe rum (although it is pretty rough stuff), sugar, and tea. T shirts and inexpensive clothing items from factory shops...but nothing very nice.
9. Can you save money?
Maybe...if you are careful about not going out to the expensive tourist spots. Beach access is easy and free, and hiking the parks is a great free weekend activity. A weekend at a posh resort, however, will cost you easily $800 for two nights with a family. Some goods in shops can be VERY expensive -- especially food items.
Words of Wisdom:
1. Knowing what you know now, would you still move to this city?
Absolutely. This post is a secret gem.
2. If you move here, you can leave behind your:
Winter clothes.
3. But don't forget your:
Sunscreen, equipment for outdoor fun, and your willingness to try new things.
